Indices of Fat and Protein for Ring-Necked Ducks

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Abstract
Indices of ash-free lean dry body weight and body fat using easily obtained tissue weights and structural measurements were developed for ring-necked ducks (Aythya collaris)collected throughout the annual cycle. The linear regression model incorporating eviscerated carcass weight, wet leg and breast muscle weights, and bill length measurements explained 81% of the variation in ash-free lean dry weight. Wet weights of the abdominal (omental) fat and shared skin tissues accounted for 96% of the variation in body fat. Comparison of direct and indirect measures of nutrient composition confirmed that indices may be used to accurately estimate body protein and fat content of ring-necked ducks.